What Does an Accountant Do?

true-tamplin_2x_mam3b7

Written by True Tamplin, BSc, CEPF®

Reviewed by Subject Matter Experts

Updated on September 08, 2023

Are You Retirement Ready?

What Does an Accountant Do?

An accountant is a critical cog in the financial machinery of any business, small or large.

Their primary responsibility includes maintaining accurate financial records, preparing and filing taxes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing strategic financial advice.

Accountants handle everything from payroll processing and bookkeeping to financial forecasting and auditing.

They analyze financial data to identify trends and make future predictions, assisting in strategic business decisions.

Furthermore, with their expert knowledge of tax law, accountants are adept at minimizing tax liability and identifying potential tax deductions.

As trusted advisors, they provide financial clarity, facilitate regulatory compliance, and support informed decision-making, playing a pivotal role in business growth and profitability.

Roles of an Accountant

Manages Financial Data

Accountants handle large volumes of financial data daily. From sales revenue, expenses, and payroll to investments, accountants are proficient in collecting, organizing, and interpreting this information.

They ensure that financial transactions are correctly recorded and classified in the company's books, providing a clear financial picture for stakeholders.

Execution of Audits

Internal and external audits are another significant aspect of an accountant's work. They are experts in examining a company's financial statements to ascertain their accuracy and compliance with regulations.

Additionally, audits carried out by accountants can highlight potential areas of improvement in the company's financial management.

Financial Plan and Analysis

Beyond the day-to-day operations, accountants also assist in strategic financial planning. They analyze financial data to forecast trends, identify opportunities for increased profitability, and recommend measures to reduce costs.

Tax Preparation and Filing

Tax preparation and filing is a critical duty for accountants. They use their expert knowledge of tax law to ensure accurate tax filings, identify deductions, and provide advice on tax-related decisions.

By doing so, accountants help individuals and companies minimize their tax liability.

Roles of an Accountant

Skills and Qualifications of an Accountant

Educational Background

A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is typically the minimum requirement for an accountant. Some positions may require a master's degree or specific certification.

Essential Skills

Accountants need a range of skills, including attention to detail, analytical skills, proficiency with financial software, and strong communication skills.

Professional Certifications

Certifications like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) are valuable in advancing an accountant's career.

Skills and Qualifications of an Accountant

Different Types of Accountants

Public Accountants

Public accountants provide a variety of accounting services to individuals, businesses, and government agencies.

Management Accountants

Management accountants, or corporate accountants, work within a company and focus on internal financial documents.

Government Accountants

Government accountants maintain and examine records of government agencies and audit private businesses or individuals for compliance with government regulations.

Forensic Accountants

Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes such as embezzlement, fraud, and other complex financial disputes.

Auditors

Auditors can be internal or external, and they review financial statements for accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Different Types of Accountants

Benefits of Having an Accountant

Ensures Regulatory Compliance

Having an accountant ensures a business stays compliant with the various regulations, saving the company from penalties and maintaining its reputation.

Provides Financial Clarity

Accountants provide financial clarity to business owners and managers by keeping accurate records and presenting them in an understandable manner.

Helps in Decision Making

Accountants aid in decision-making by providing well-analyzed financial data, helping to formulate strategic business plans.

Offers Strategic Tax Plan

Accountants offer strategic tax planning, helping businesses leverage tax laws for their benefit, thereby saving money.

Manages Risks through Audit

Accountants manage risk by conducting internal audits, identifying areas of weakness, and suggesting improvements.

Drawbacks of Having an Accountant

Cost of Services

Hiring an accountant can be expensive, especially for small businesses or startups operating on a tight budget.

Dependence on the Accountant's Expertise and Integrity

Companies heavily rely on their accountant's expertise and integrity. A less skilled or unethical accountant can harm the business.

Potential Errors and Mistakes

Despite their expertise, accountants are humans and can make errors, leading to financial losses or regulatory issues.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Having an Accountant

Conclusion

Accountants play a pivotal role in the financial management of businesses, offering indispensable services that contribute to growth and profitability.

Their responsibilities encompass maintaining accurate financial records, preparing taxes, ensuring compliance, and providing strategic financial advice.

Accountants possess essential skills, such as attention to detail, analytical acumen, proficiency with financial software, and effective communication. Professional certifications like CPA or CMA enhance their career prospects.

There are various types of accountants, including public accountants, management accountants, government accountants, forensic accountants, and auditors, each serving different needs.

The benefits of having an accountant are numerous, ranging from ensuring regulatory compliance and providing financial clarity to aiding in decision-making and offering strategic tax planning.

However, there are drawbacks as well, such as the cost of services, dependence on the accountant's expertise and integrity, and the potential for human errors.

Despite these drawbacks, the expertise and insights provided by accountants make them indispensable assets for any business seeking financial success and stability.

What Does an Accountant Do? FAQs

true-tamplin_2x_mam3b7

About the Author

True Tamplin, BSc, CEPF®

True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.

True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.

To learn more about True, visit his personal website or view his author profiles on Amazon, Nasdaq and Forbes.

Meet Top Certified Financial Advisors Near You